Nursing Licensure

Graduates earning the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree are eligible to apply to write the NCLEX‑RN, National Comprehensive Licensure Examination ‑ Registered Nurse. However, graduation does not automatically ensure eligibility to write the licensure examination. Each graduate must apply to write the licensure exam; the application includes a criminal background check (Missouri and FBI search with fingerprinting). There is not any one specific type of crime that will disqualify an applicant. The Missouri State Board of Nursing reviews all criminal records and supporting documentation on a case-by-case basis to determine if an application will be approved or denied. Section 335.066, RSMo, of the Nursing Practice Act, which can be viewed at http://pr.mo.gov/boards/nursing/npa.pdf, lists the reasons for which a person may be denied a license.

Upon passing the NCLEX‑RN, the nurse is able to practice in the state where they applied for licensure. Nurses practice under the provisions of each state's nurse practice act. In Missouri, it is the Nursing Practice Act, Missouri Statutes Chapter 335. Students are expected to possess a copy of and be familiar with the entire Practice Act which can be found at http://pr.mo.gov/boards/nursing/npa.pdf.

Advanced Practice Certification

Graduates earning the Master of Science in Nursing with the NP track are eligible to apply to write the corresponding Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam they are enrolled in through a nationally recognized credentialing organization. NP graduates are also eligible to apply for Advanced Practice Nurse recognition in Missouri and Kansas. Graduates who wish to apply for recognition in other states should contact the state board of nursing. Graduates of the Nurse Educator track are eligible for certification through the National League of Nursing (NLN). Graduates of the Clinical Nurse Leader track are required to sit for the CNL certification examination offered by the Commission on Nurse Certification.

Post-Graduation

While Research College of Nursing does prepare students for a role in nursing, the college does not guarantee employment in the graduate’s selected area. No formal career services are available at Research College of Nursing, but the faculty and staff provide support in the area of resume-writing, interview preparation, and employer recruitment activities.